The Union Government has launched the official process to take over Bitra Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, citing its strategic importance for national security. This move comes amidst growing geopolitical tensions in the Indian Ocean and a push to strengthen India’s maritime defence capabilities.

Why Bitra Island?

Bitra is the smallest inhabited island in Lakshadweep, home to around 105 families. The government’s recent notification clearly highlights its strategic location and national security relevance as the primary reasons behind the proposed acquisition. Bitra lies in a key position in the Arabian Sea, close to major international shipping routes, making it significant for surveillance and defence.

Officials have said that the entire land area of Bitra is proposed to be taken over by the Department of Revenue to facilitate its transfer to central defence and strategic agencies. The notification promises a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) to consider the effects on the local population. However, under the land acquisition laws currently in force, the consent of the residents and gram sabhas is not mandatory for such a takeover.

Push for National Security

The move forms part of a larger national plan to boost defence presence on India’s critical island territories. After recent strategic upgrades in the Indian Navy’s bases at Minicoy and Androth islands, Bitra has come up for acquisition to complement India’s surveillance network in the Arabian Sea. Defence experts point out that military installations in these islands will help India keep a close watch on the busy sea lanes, counter illegal activities, and respond quickly to maritime threats posed by neighbouring countries.

Local Reaction and Protests

The announcement has triggered concern and opposition among Bitra’s residents, who fear displacement and loss of their ancestral land. Local leaders and Lakshadweep’s Member of Parliament, Hamdullah Sayeed, have strongly criticised the administration for its approach. They argue that the authorities did not properly consult the islanders before declaring the acquisition plan. Sayeed has announced support for the people of Bitra and stated that they would explore both political and legal avenues to resist the move.

He emphasised that many such defence land acquisitions have happened without adequate rehabilitation for locals, calling it “unacceptable” to target an indigenous population without considering alternatives. The district administration, however, has stated it will finish the Social Impact Assessment and consult all stakeholders within two months of the notification, issued on 11 July.

The Road Ahead

The final decision will depend on the findings from the Social Impact Assessment and the central government’s stance. With the project now in the official notification stage, the future of Bitra’s residents remains uncertain. As India seeks to strengthen its presence in the Indian Ocean through key island fortifications, the balance between national security needs and residents’ rights is being tested once again in remote regions like Lakshadweep.